Introduction

Best known as the Titfield Thunderbolt, Lion is one of the most beloved locomotives in railway preservation – transformed from humble luggage engine to film star, this is a Cinderella story. Built in Leeds in 1838 by Todd, Kitson & Laird, Lion is the only surviving locomotive built for the pioneering Liverpool & Manchester Railway.

After a mainline working life of nineteen years, Lion was sold into industrial use in 1859. Drawing on extensive archival research and a detailed study of the original locomotive, this book explores the design and construction of Lion, as well as its career on the Liverpool & Manchester Railway and eventual preservation and restoration, including her several film roles. Finally, the question is asked ‘How much of Lion is original?’